The School of Behavioural Sciences and Forensic Investigations (SBSFI) at Rashtriya Raksha University successfully concluded a one-month Training of Trainers (TOT) Programme on Psychological Counselling for Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) of the Eastern Command, Indian Army, held from September 19 to October 22, 2024. This specialised training aimed to equip JCOs with essential counselling skills and mental health awareness to support the personnel under their command.

The programme was attended by 15 participants, who gained valuable insights into mental health awareness, psychological gatekeeping, and counselling strategies specifically designed for the armed forces. The training was meticulously designed by SBSFI to address the growing need for psychological support and mental health resilience within the armed forces.

The TOT Programme was designed with the goal of enhancing mental health awareness among JCOs to help them maintain operational effectiveness and personal resilience, developing counselling and gatekeeping skills, empowering JCOs to offer initial support to those in distress, enabling participants to identify and manage mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, and trauma among themselves and their colleagues, promoting a supportive environment in units where mental health concerns can be openly discussed without stigma, and fostering overall well-being by encouraging proactive measures to prioritize mental health.

The theoretical and practical sessions were led by the expert faculty and staff of SBSFI, covering a comprehensive range of topics, including the basics of counselling, active listening, conflict resolution, mindfulness, coping strategies for burnout, and therapeutic models for substance abuse and mental health.

The programme concluded with a valedictory ceremony held on October 22, 2024, graced by the presence of Prof. (Dr.) Bimal N. Patel, Vice Chancellor, and Dr. Mahesh Tripathi, Director I/c, SBSFI. During the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor congratulated the participants and highlighted the importance of integrating mental health awareness into military training and leadership.

This training programme reflects Rashtriya Raksha University's ongoing commitment to providing high-quality education and creating opportunities for global dialogue and learning for uniformed personnel. The university is dedicated to advancing the discipline of psychology, particularly in the context of the armed forces, and looks forward to hosting future programmes that further strengthen the mental resilience of uniformed resources.

Rashtriya Raksha University is a pioneering institution dedicated to national security and public safety education. Through cutting-edge research, academic programmes, and hands-on training, the university prepares professionals in various fields, including law enforcement, defense, and public safety.

AP/GP/JD

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